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156
Woolwich for about 150 was organised for Wednesday, 19th
November. Seven of the larger shops remained open between 5.30
and 8 p.m. and their staffs, who worked voluntarily and without
pay, showed extreme kindness and courtesy to the shoppers.
Moreover, four of these stores provided refreshments without charge
and the R.A.C.S. allowed us free use of their car park.
Whilst handicapped persons were encouraged to make their own
way to the shops and 20 managed to do so, some with the aid of
Invacars, such a venture would have been impossible without the
able assistance of members of the police, "Task Force", British
Red Cross Society, St. John's Ambulance Brigade and volunteers
from the Borough's own staff.
On this occasion our own transport was supplemented by vehicles
from the London Borough of Lewisham and the Inner London
Education Authority.
With their own escorts and transport, over 50 handicapped
persons from the London Borough of Bexley were also able to
participate in the expedition.
Transport
For many handicapped people, one of the most distressing
features of their disability is a severe impairment of mobility. A
suitable means of transport for such people is a prime necessity in
fostering interests and activities outside the home. Indeed, the
success of all functions arranged for these groups depends upon
its adequacy and the ready co-operation of the drivers.
The Council's transport for the disabled comprises a fleet of
' minibuses and six specially designed coaches equipped with a taillift
for loading the severely disabled. Each coach can accommodate
up to three patients in wheelchairs in addition to those in
the passenger seats. These vehicles are used mainly to convey
people, who are unable to use normal transport, to clubs and
centres organised by the Council and numerous voluntary agencies.
Transport is also provided by the department for holiday schemes
and occasional outings.
Future Development
Considerable scope for the improvement and expansion of
services for the handicapped exists which can only be fully satisfied
when finances become readily available. Some impetus to the
extension of these services is certain when the Chronically Sick
and Disabled Persons Act of 1970 is fully implemented.
Substantial future benefits from our policy of appointing trainee
social workers are foreseen with the acceptance of 3 of our